Odisha tightens administrative grip on Kotia; Andhra’s influence waning, claims Minister

Odisha intensifies administrative efforts in Kotia, with Minister Suresh Pujari highlighting the decline of Andhra Pradesh's influence due to successful welfare schemes.

Odisha tightens administrative grip on Kotia; Andhra’s influence waning, claims Minister

Kotia in Odisha's Koraput, which Andhra Pradesh claims as its jurisdiction.

time

The Odisha government is intensifying its administrative outreach in the Kotia region of Koraput district, with state ministers preparing a series of visits to monitor and expand public welfare schemes, informed Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari.

In an interaction with media persons on Monday, Pujari stated that Andhra Pradesh’s influence in Kotia has visibly declined, thanks to the growing presence of Odisha’s welfare programmes on the ground.

Speaking to reporters, Pujari confirmed that various state-run initiatives, including ration distribution and Subhadra Yojana, are now being effectively implemented in the region. “We are witnessing a positive shift. People are engaging with Odisha’s schemes, and administrative control is strengthening,” the minister said.

Multi-Departmental Action Plan in Motion

Highlighting a coordinated approach, the Revenue Minister revealed that several departments are preparing for on-ground reviews and distribution drives in Kotia.

“I’ve spoken to the Food and Supplies Minister. He will soon visit Kotia to distribute newly issued ration cards, the registration process for which is now complete. Other departments are also mobilising to implement their flagship programmes in the region,” Pujari noted.

Reports added that Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida is also scheduled to visit Kotia in the coming days, where she will review the implementation of the Subhadra Yojana. District-level welfare programs will also be held simultaneously to assess and ensure full coverage of benefits.

Public Rejection of Andhra Outreach

Pujari further revealed that recent attempts by Andhra Pradesh officials to assert presence in select villages of Gajapati district were met with public resistance.

“People are increasingly identifying with Odisha’s administration. They have started rejecting external interference,” he said.

To strengthen the administrative setup further, the Odisha government is planning to establish a permanent police outpost in Kotia to monitor and prevent cross-border incursions. Looking ahead, the Odisha government is also planning targeted interventions in education and human resource development.

Proposals are being drafted to introduce special scholarships for meritorious students from the region, aimed at boosting long-term development and reinforcing community trust in the state’s governance.

Next story